Thursday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Gap Sale and Men's Clothing

I have a bit of free time today and Gap is holding an online sale -- 25% of entire online purchase of regularly priced items; enter code GIFT123 at checkout -- so I thought I would post some vegan items Gap is offering for men. Depending on work environment, some might not be office appropriate, but they would be good for the weekend!

First, the standard cotton crewneck sweater (pictured left in the "indigo blue"). Made entirely from cotton. Great to put over a collared shirt for a more casual, yet still professional look, and great to wear alone on the weekends for a very casual look. Originally $39.50, now $25. Not sure if that means it qualifies for the 25% off special. Regardless, it already is more than 25% off. Find it here in the blue and seven other colors.

Second, a moleskin blazer (pictured right). This blazer definitely is work-appropriate. Customer reviews say it is great for fall and winter. Wear it over a collared shirt to complete a dressy business-casual look. Made from cotton. It comes only in the pictured brown. $98; find it here.

Third, striped shirts (pictured left in the blue "bank stripe"). Perfect to pair with a full suit or with pants and a nice (vegan!) belt for a more casual look. Made from cotton. Gap is offering striped shirts in a variety of colors: the pictured shirt (here); it also comes in "malbec and white stripe" and "blue hydrangea and white stripe" (both here); and a darker blue stripe (here). All the shirts are $44.50.

And, finally, for the upcoming cold days and night, a sherpa-lined parka (pictured right). A twill exterior combined with a sherpa-lining all the way to the knees is sure to keep you warm. Made entirely from cotton, so you also can feel warm about not harming any animals! Available only in the pictured "chino bark." $128; find it here.

Tuesday's Work-Appropriate Clothing Item: Black Winter Coat

Now that Halloween has passed and Thanksgiving is approaching, it's time to think about the dreaded winter coat. Unfortunately, most of the good ones (i.e. warm ones) incorporate wool and down/goose feathers. I have a few of these coats from my pre-vegan days. They are still in great condition, so I will continue wearing them. But if I was in the market for a new fancy coat to go over a dress or a chunky sweater and pant outfit, I would be drawn to Nature Vs. Future's asymmetrical winter coat (pictured in the available black). It hits right at that knee, and, as the name suggests, features asymmetrical buttons for a bit of flare. Made from a hemp and cotton blend -- and made in Brooklyn (NY)! Kaight, a cute NYC boutique featuring eco-friendly clothing and accessories, where I found the coat, says it is "extremely warm." $425; find it here.

Vegan Purchase: Coat and Sweatshirt

In place of Tuesday's work-appropriate clothing item and Wednesday's vegan shoes or bag, as I am out of town for a couple days, check out these two items I recently bought at Ann Taylor Loft, which seems to have emerged from a lull of three or four years.

First, from Ann Taylor Loft's new "Lounge" collection, I purchased the "Rib Trim Cowl Neck" top in the black (it is pictured in the pewter melange). It is made from cotton and is very, very soft and comfortable. Though it technically is "lounge" wear, this item is as nice or nicer than many tops, sweatshirts, and sweaters: I would feel comfortable wearing it with a pair of nice jeans and black flats to the office on the weekend. In addition to the pewter melange and black, it comes in a lovely "pebble melange grey." The top is $49.50 (though I had a coupon from a previous purchase that effectively took 50% the purchase price); find it here.

Second, since I am desperate need of vegan work-appropriate winter coats, which are often impossible to find when you actually really need one, I also purchased the "Cotton Long Belted Coat" in the pictured "deep lake blue," which is the only color it comes in. Although the coat is made from cotton and lined with polyester, it is surprising substantial and heavy. In fact, I think it will be appropriate for weather above about 30 degrees absent snow. The coat is $168; find it here.

Limited Edition Vegan Coat With Sale Profits Going To Farm Sanctuary

I'm still on a bit of a break from the daily blogging (busy week on the job after returning from a short vacation, honestly) . . . I intend to return next week . . . but, to tide you over, check out Vaute Couture's limited run “Vaute” coat.

Some pertinent info from the designer: "The alluring pea/dress coat — inspired by the winning illustration chosen by 8,000 voters from the Vaute Couture community, and interpreted into a feminine hourglass silhouette with oversized asymmetrical collar, puffed sleeves and inverted pleated skirt — is fully lined in a windproof 100 percent recycled zero waste satin ripstop, and is wind, water and snow resistant. The product of eight months of fabric research, it is constructed of a brand new technologically advanced fabric from the Polartec Wind Pro Series that is luxuriously soft and designed to retain heat while staying slim and flattering."

Vaute Couture is producing a variety of colors (Black, Cobalt Blue, Gray, and Ivory, as well as a Honeycomb Recycled Black version) and in sizes XS-XL. 25 coats of each color are being made. In line with the limited nature of the run and the couture label of the designer, each coat is $562. Of interest, all net profits of the sale go to Farm Sanctuary. I love Farm Sanctuary! Find the coat here.

Vegan On The Weekend: Selections From Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale is one of my best friend's favorite sale event. The sale offers some good deals on fall fashion. I thought I'd point out some of the vegan items on sale.

(1) Joie "Fara" Plaid Tuxedo Shirt: plaid shirts have been appearing all over magazine covers lately. I'm not sure if this shirt's ruffles combined with the plaid is a bit too much, although I saw it in Nordstrom and it seemed to work. The shirt is made from cotton and comes in the pictured "potion" plaid; in store, it also is available in a white-black-brown-gray plaid color combo. Originally $188, it is on sale for $109.90.

(2) Classiques Entier Drape Neck Sheath Dress: a folded collar with a sophisticated bow adds a unique look to this sheath dress; the cap sleeves are a perfect combination of the current sleeve-less look with an added bit of fabric for a more conservative look. The dress is made from polyester, viscose, and spandex, and comes in the "menswear-inspired" black multi color. Originally $228, it is on sale for $149.90.

(3) Semantiks Ruffle Pocket Cardigan: this deep v-cardigan with un-obtrusive ruffling at the pockets comes in "regular" and petite sizes in a variety of colors including the pictured "paris purple." The sweater is made from rayon and nylon. Originally $68, it is on sale for $39.90.

(4) Foxcroft Fitted Shirt: classic crisp white button-down shirt in a feminine "fitted" fit with pleats and princess seams. The shirt is made from cotton, and is of the "no-iron" variety. Originally $68, it is on sale for $44.90. The Nordstrom sale also features a bunch of other Foxcroft shirts, most with patterns or texture; find them all here.

(5) Kristen Blake Iridescent Quilted Coat: I particularly like the huge pockets on this shiny quilted water-resistant coat. It comes in the pictured pewter and a bronze, and in "regular," petite, and plus sizes. The coat is made from polyester and nylon, and has polyester lining. Originally $150, it is on sale for $89.90.

(6) And, finally, something for men: Façonnable Cotton Jacket: this lightweight zip-up jacket made from cotton is perfect for weekend excursions or more casual days traveling to and from the office. It is lined with the ever-popular plaid. The sweater jacket comes in the pictured navy and a dark-ish tan. Originally $295, it is on sale for $199.90.

Designer Vegan Deal: Selections from Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale

Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale for Women and Kids started yesterday. Items are on sale for 10% - 40% off. Thought I would point out a few vegan finds in addition to the pants I already posted this morning.

Continuing with the linen pant trend, and on the more expensive side even with the 40% off, are Leifsdottir's "Pebble" wide-leg linen trousers in the left pictured navy. The decorative gold buttons along the side-slant pockets match the three gold buttons that line the back pockets. I like the turned-up cuffs and the extra wide legs. Made from linen and viscose. The pants originally were $258 and are on sale for $153.90; here.

To wear over your suits during in-climate weather, check out Michael by Michael Kors' "Clip Closure" topper, pictured right in the "sand." It also comes in a bright "taxi yellow" (perhaps not work appropriate) and black. The accompanying drawstring hood is detachable. Made from cotton and polyester. Best of all, it is machine washable. Originally $128, it is on sale for $79.90 (35% off). Find it here. Also, if you are looking for something slightly more tailored, you might like Via Spiga's "Sienna" walking coat, which comes in a similar light camel, a chocolate brown, and black. Originally $148, on sale for $89.90 (35% off); here.

On the very, very expensive side, St. John Collection's "Floral Print" stretch cotton dress is on sale for $594 (originally $995 -- 40% off) (pictured left). I love the high neck, knee-hitting length, and matching thin belt. The dress would look great with a black blazer or a black cardigan, as well as a taupe blazer or cardigan. Pair it with black or taupe heels. Made from cotton and spandex. Find it here.

Finally, Marc by Marc Jacobs' line of totes is on sale for 33% off, such as the right pictured "tobo." I'm not sure how work-appropriate these totes are, but they are great for the weekend or carrying lots of items to the gym in an eye-catching bag. Made from nylon. The pictured tote originally was $198 and is on sale for $131.90; here. Marc by Marc Jacobs makes a similar full tote that originally was $188 and is on sale for $124.90; here.

Vegan Purchase: Black Trench

To continue with the trench theme-of-the-day, I purchased this Style&co "Polished Double-Breasted" trench coat from Macy's a couple week ago. I especially liked the length and the belt that can be worn tied or buckled. It also has cute detailing at the cuffs. I wore it a couple times before the winter weather returned; it's perfect for milder spring-like days and looks great with jeans or a full-suit. My only qualm with it is that it thinks I have more of a chest than I really do, though that's not surprising -- at least there is enough room to fit a suit jacket underneath.

The trench is made from cotton, polyester, and spandex. It is originally $99.00; I got it for 40% off ($59.40); it is now on sale for $49.50 (50% off). Find it here.

Thursday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: Trenches

From Target, of all places, because they are classic, yet trendy and look very well-made in person.

My favorite is the Merona Ottoman Trench with trim in deep navy -- although, it might not go with every outfit you wear to work. Medium weight; perfect for cooler spring days; made from cotton with polyester lining. I especially enjoy the two rows of contrast piping down the back and the funnel neck. The trench is $54.99; here.

For a more classic look, I suggest the Merona Long Double-Breasted Trench. It comes in the pictured black and off white. Made from cotton and nylon with polyester lining. The trench is on sale for $27.99 (originally $34.99 -- 20% off). Find the black here and the off white here.

The trench also comes in a slightly shorter version in a wide variety of colors: black, khaki, yellow, rose, navy, and green. The slightly shorter version is $39.99.

Thursday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: Kenneth Cole Trench Coat

Macy's is offering this Kenneth Cole single-breasted belted trench coat on super sale: originally $180, on sale for $63. I like the look of the stand collar combined with the flaps at the shoulder. The coat comes in the pictured tan and a black -- at this time, a variety of sizes are available in both colors. It is made from polyester with polyester lining. And it qualifies for free shipping! Find it here.

Tuesday's Work Appropriate Clothing Item: Nanette Lepore Coat

It's going to be warm this afternoon across the east coast and for the first time in several months, I intend to take a short walk during lunch -- which means it's time to break out the spring lighter-weight coats . . . or . . . if funds allow . . . buy a new vegan spring coat.

My funds don't currently allow it, but if they did, I would purchase Nanette Lepore's "Kissing Coat." I love the belted cuffs and back, the buttons down the front, the cute pin-tucks at the high waist, and the perfect longer length. Made from cotton, it comes in the pictured white. I'm not sure if white is appropriate quite yet, but it will be great in a month or so. Unfortunately, the coat is an insane $550. Find the coat here.

Neiman Marcus pairs the coat with Nanette Lepore's "Picnic Pique Pants," which are also vegan-friendly and also adorable and very work-appropriate. Made from cotton, viscose, and elastane, and lined with acetate. They are $295; find them here.

Vegan On The Weekend: Trip To The Shore

I am going to the Jersey Shore this weekend for a girls' night at the shore -- we're going to watch movies and have massages and, of course, eat -- my contribution is vegan chocolate chip cookies (recipe via The Joy of Vegan Baking), vegan mocha chocolate muffins with coffee-infused frosting (recipes via Vegan Cupcakes Take Over The World), vegan blueberry muffins (recipe via The Joy of Vegan Baking), and vegan apricot bean dip (recipe via Bush's vegetarian baked beans -- mine turned out a bit more soupy than the online picture, although it still solidly stays on tortilla chips).

Although it's still very cold, preparing for going to a beach house made me think of actually going to the beach. And then I remembered a magazine I received from Nordstrom at the beginning of January which highlighted tons of beach and summer wear -- some vegan. Here are a few items I especially covet; as an aside, I don't actually like to go in the water at the beach, or, really, uncover more than minimal amounts of skin, which may explain some of my choices:

Laundry by Shelli Segal Anorak: I love the bubble bottom and the drawstring waist and the buckle tabs at the convertible sleeves (so I can say: see, I am wearing short(ish) sleeves!). The coat comes in the pictured khaki (left) and black. Made from cotton and nylon; $138.

On the topic of spring/summer-weight coats, I also like the Calvin Klein "Asymmetric Trench," which comes in aqua (bright blue) and yellow--two colors that are a bit much for me, even in the summer, but lovely nonetheless. It's made from cotton and spandex, and is $148.

To wear to the beach to maintain maximum cover-up, while still appearing "beachy," I recommend James Perse's "Racer-Back Maxi Dress" (pictured right in the "deep"). Some may say this isn't beach appropriate -- but I love the length and the dark color and think it will look great over a bikini. The dress also comes in black, porcupine (grey), and vintage (white). Made from cotton; $155.

Finally, while on the beach, keeping time is of the essence (for those sunscreen applications, of course!). While flipping through the "magazine," Zodiak's "SeaDragon" watches caught my eye. Stainless steel case with a rubber strap. Comes in three colors combinations (see left). My favorite is the turquoise with the pink face. The watch is $150.

Vegan Selections From Kenneth Cole Sale

Kenneth Cole is promoting its post-holiday season sale under the catchphrase: "free for all (more or less)." I'm not a huge fan of the sales tactic, but the quantity of clothing on sale, some of which is vegan, makes up for the maxim. A few selections for women (men's clothing is on sale too, but each sale item only is available in one or two sizes; you can browse men's sale clothing here).

1) Satin Trench Coat (pictured right in the black): my favorite feature of this coat is the extra-wide collar. The coat is 58% cotton, 40% polyester, and 2% polyurethane. My second favorite feature of the coat (well, possibly my first favorite) is the price. The coat originally was $248. It is on sale in black for $179.98 and in cobalt for $129.97 (small is the only color available in cobalt). Best of all, 50% is taken off the markdown price at checkout, making the black coat $89.99 and the cobalt coat $64.99.

2) Long Sleeve Turtleneck (pictured left in the violet): I love, love, love turtlenecks, especially when they are on sale. This turtleneck is lightweight and slightly stretchy. It is made from 92% cotton and 8% spandex, and comes in violet, aqua (a light blue), lipstick (a fiery red), and black. Originally $78, it is on sale for $49.99. After 50% is taken off the markdown price, it is $24.99.

3) Gold Leaf Design Brooch (pictured right): I think this brooch would look fabulous on a black or grey suit or perhaps on a peacoat (vegan, of course). My feeling about brooches and suits and younger professionals is that if the brooch doesn't look like you took it from your great-grandmother's jewelry box, you're good to go. I especially like that the design of this brooch is a bit sea-life infused. The brooch is made from "white metal" with gold colored plating. It originally was $48, is on sale for $29.98, and after the 50% is taken off, is $14.99, which I think is an appropriate price for such a suit accessory.

Neiman Marcus 3-Day Sale -- Burberry Coats

Neiman Marcus is having an awesome 3-day sale, ending Sunday, Nov 2 at 6pm CST. Among other items, a large portion of Burberry outwear is 40% off! Some of these items are vegan, such as this tailored version of Burberry's classic quilted micro-fiber jacket (pictured right). It comes in black, chestnut and birch, and is entirely polyester. Originally $550; now $330. I also enjoy this black long trench coat (pictured left). It also is entirely polyester. Originally $895; now $540. It is similar to this rain coat, which is slightly shorter, also entirely polyester, and $60 less after the 40% off.